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Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 59 reviews

This Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Juicy homemade meatballs made from lean ground beef are simmered in savory marinara sauce, then nestled into hot dog buns and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Ready in just 35 minutes, these hearty subs bring comforting Italian flavors to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 pound ground beef (95% lean)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Cooking & Assembly

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 8 hot dog buns
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, then shape the mixture into approximately 24 evenly sized meatballs.
  2. Brown the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Simmer in marinara sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the browned meatballs. Reduce heat to low and let them simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through and tender.
  4. Assemble the subs: Preheat the broiler. Place about 5-6 meatballs into each hot dog bun. Spoon additional marinara sauce over the meatballs, then generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
  5. Broil to melt cheese: Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 2-4 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Store-bought frozen meatballs can be used to save preparation time.
  • Customize your subs by adding sliced peppers, onions, or fresh basil for extra flavor and texture.
  • For a lower-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella or reduce the amount of cheese.
  • These meatball subs are best enjoyed fresh but can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Keywords: meatball subs, easy weeknight dinner, Italian sandwiches, homemade meatballs, quick marinara sauce

Find it online: https://busyrecipe.com/easy-weeknight-meatball-subs-recipe/